The stories of those in our family who came before us are a rich vein to explore through either oral history, family myth or factual research. In this workshop we will explore creating poetry, fiction, or creative nonfiction based on your ancestor’s stories using the technique of “active imagination” explored by poets Jordie Albiston and Patricia J. Smith. Participants will examine techniques used by poets and creative writers through studying examples of those who use family stories as the basis of, or inspiration for, their writing. Bring your own stories and an “active imagination” as we use our ancestor’s stories as the jumping off point for our writing.